Stanton, Lagrange Lead Yankees' List of Injury-Return Candidates for Wild-Card Series
Several key players are racing back from injuries, creating roster uncertainty for the Yankees as they prepare for the postseason.
The New York Yankees are facing significant roster decisions for their upcoming American League wild-card series, with several key players rehabbing from injuries and vying for a spot. Among those participating in recent batting practice sessions and aiming for a return are veteran slugger Giancarlo Stanton, outfielder Trent Grisham, and pitching prospect Carlos Lagrange.
Stanton, who has been sidelined since late April with multiple calf strains, took live batting practice and ran the bases. Manager Aaron Boone indicated Stanton had six or seven at-bats during the session, including a home run. However, Boone expressed uncertainty about Stanton's readiness for the first round, stating that while "anything's possible, but we'll see." If Stanton makes the roster, it might be in a role as a right-handed pinch-hitter against left-handed pitching, particularly against the Red Sox's staff.
Grisham, dealing with a hamstring strain, is also not expected to be activated before the end of the regular season but could become an option for the wild-card roster. His potential return would provide depth, as the current fourth outfielder is utilityman José Caballero.
On the pitching side, top prospect Carlos Lagrange faced hitters during a live batting practice session. Lagrange, who was expected to be a contributor in the Yankees' bullpen in the second half, experienced a capsular sprain of his right shoulder in early July. After a six-week shutdown and a buildup, he pitched an inning in a Triple-A game last week, reportedly reaching 102.1 mph. Boone confirmed Lagrange is "in the conversation for something," though he is not yet on the 40-man roster.
The Yankees are also managing other injury concerns within their pitching staff. Clarke Schmidt, who experienced bicep cramping, felt better after playing catch but his availability for Thursday was uncertain. Ryan Weathers, sidelined with a left forearm flexor issue, is scheduled for a bullpen session Friday and is expected to face hitters next week. Pitching coach Matt Blake has suggested a live session on Friday could expedite his recovery.
Adding to the uncertainty, star outfielder Aaron Judge is still hoping to make himself available for the wild-card series despite a moderate calf strain that has the club preparing as if he will not be part of the plan. The team is balancing the potential return of these players with the need to fill out a roster that can compete in the postseason, creating a tenuous situation as they finalize their plans.